BUREAU OF RECLAMATION
FACILITIES INSTRUCTIONS, STANDARDS, & TECHNIQUES
Volume 4 - 5
USE OF CATHODIC PROTECTION OF
BURIED AND SUBMERGED METALS IN
CORROSION PREVENTION IN
ELECTRIC POWER SYSTEMS
PURPOSE AND SCOPE
The intent of this volume is to provide basic information concerning corrosion of submerged and
buried metals encountered in electric power installations and the application of cathodic protection
or other methods as a means of protection. The protection of metallic structures against corrosion
damage is considered important from an operating standpoint and from the financial aspect of
replacement of structural components. A few of the considerations of this cost are shortened
structure life, equipment or system out-of-service time, and increased maintenance. The dollar cost
is not the only concern as the loss of critical material and human effort are also items of
considerable importance. Protection against corrosion by cathodic protection is one method of
curtailing this loss.
buried metals encountered in electric power installations and the application of cathodic protection
or other methods as a means of protection. The protection of metallic structures against corrosion
damage is considered important from an operating standpoint and from the financial aspect of
replacement of structural components. A few of the considerations of this cost are shortened
structure life, equipment or system out-of-service time, and increased maintenance. The dollar cost
is not the only concern as the loss of critical material and human effort are also items of
considerable importance. Protection against corrosion by cathodic protection is one method of
curtailing this loss.
The principles and methods discussed herein will provide field personnel with the necessary basic
information for a clearer understanding of the action involved in corrosion. Further, it will delineate
the simple situations in which a cathodic protection system might be installed by project forces and
other circumstances where the assistance of specialists would be advisable.
information for a clearer understanding of the action involved in corrosion. Further, it will delineate
the simple situations in which a cathodic protection system might be installed by project forces and
other circumstances where the assistance of specialists would be advisable.
September 1992